Houston’s vacant Astrodome could become trade show facility

The iconic Houston Astrodome, which has been empty and unused since 2008, could be reborn as a special events and trade show facility, according to a proposal by consultants led by Dallas-based CSL. The $270 million rehab option could turn Houston into a popular destination for special events and national trade shows, the consultants said. The plan would preserve the iconic structure’s outer shell. The multipurpose facility could be finished by 2016 if the plan is approved.

The proposal was one of four considered by the consultants. The other options included leaving the dome alone, demolishing it and building an outdoor plaza, or building a massive and expensive "renaissance" complex anchored by a luxury hotel.

Drew Ballensky is general manager of Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.’s central U.S. facility in Iowa and company spokesman for Duro-Last’s cool roofing, sustainability and architectural education programs. He is past-president of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association and chairman of CFFA’s Vinyl Roofing Division. Drew earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University.
Drew has over 29 years experience in business and industry in various engineering and managerial capacities. He has worked in the U.S. and Canadian operations for a major international manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, was a financial analyst with a major athletic apparel manufacturer and was an owner of a general contracting company.